PERFORMANCE OF APPLE CULTIVARS AND ROOTSTOCKS IN VARIOUS ORCHARD SYSTEMS IN NORTH-EASTERN HUNGARY

In the autumn of 2001, a trial apple orchard was planted to compare 2 training systems (slender spindle and vertical axis), 8 rootstocks (M.9 T.337, M.9 Burgmer 984, Jork 9, B9, M.26, MM.106, MM.111 and B118), and 8 planting densities (3.6-4.5 x 0.75-1.75 m) with 2 varieties ('Jonathan Csany 1' and 'Sampion'). To aid the proper development of the trees a trellis system was constructed, and also a micro-sprinkler irrigation system installed. The objective of this trial is to select the best new, promising rootstocks -not yet used in Hungary- that best suits the natural conditions of the North-Eastern apple growing area of Hungary. We also want to know the influence of each rootstocks and training systems on the performance of the trees. In the first years after planting, growth of the cultivars on various rootstocks are presented.